Math challenge: Unravel the mystery of this seemingly simple equation

Math challenge: Unravel the mystery of this seemingly simple equation

A controversial equation divides opinions: discover why the correct result is surprising when following traditional mathematical rules.

Exploration of the different calculation steps:

Mathematics

Step 1: Simplifying the parentheses

To begin, let’s shorten the expression inside the parentheses:

1 + 2 = 3

Thus, the expression becomes:

6 ÷ 2(3)

Step 2: Handling multiplication and division operations (from left to right)

The fundamental rule of mathematics is to respect  the order of operations , known by the acronyms  PEMDAS  or  BODMAS , which mean:

  • P/B  = Parentheses
  • E/O  = Exponents or Orders (powers, roots)
  • MD  = Multiplication and Division (from left to right)
  • AS  = Addition and Subtraction (from left to right)

Note:  Multiplication and division are treated at the same level and must be performed in  the order they appear  from left to right.

Thus, the expression  6 ÷ 2(3)  can be rewritten as follows:

6 ÷ 2 × 3

Step 3: Division and multiplication

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